TSA Rolls Out New Electronics Rules for All U.S. Passengers

Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

You might need some more of those plastic buckets.

Jess McHugh

July 26, 2017

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced Wednesday that it will now require passengers to remove all electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and put them into separate bins when passing through security screenings at airports.

The policy has long applied to laptops but will now include iPads, tablets, and any other device that is larger than a mobile phone.

The new regulations were tested in several airports earlier this year and will now apply to passengers traveling to, from, and within the U.S., according to a press release. TSA pre-check members will not need to comply with this new rule.

“It is critical for TSA to constantly enhance and adjust security screening procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats and keep passengers safe. By separating personal electronic items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles for screening, TSA officers can more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror threats,” said TSA Acting Administrator Huban A. Gowadia.

TSA said it was responding to an increase in security threats on the nation's airports.